News & Commentary

The goal of all youth legal systems is to ensure youth are given a developmentally appropriate chance to right their wrongs and move into adulthood on a more positive track.

Youth justice systems were created to protect young people’s rights and focus on education and rehabilitation rather than punishment

October 10 marks World Day Against the Death Penalty. This year, the annual observance day comes on the heels of five recent executions that were carried out in the span of a week.

Juvenile justice systems were created to protect young people’s rights and focus on education and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Sadly, in recent years, Ohio institutions have drifted away from that original purpose.

The ACLU of Ohio opposes censorship in all its forms. From books and radio to film, television, and the internet, we ensure Ohioans have the right to learn without fear of government suppression. Book banning is one of the most common and pervasive forms of censorship in our society.

Higher Education Institutions have been hubs for social justice, dissent, and free-thinking, making them a place where young adults thrive and develop their own voices.

Every election is a chance for Ohioans to vote their values. As we approach November, we will have that chance again, and it is vital for all eligible Ohioans to be able to cast their ballots without cumbersome barriers or disadvantages.

As students return to campus across Ohio this month, I am continuously reminded of how much excitement and anticipation this time of year brings. Students beginning their new schedules and discovering what they want to participate in makes me feel hopeful for the future of the state.

To Chairman Edwards, Vice Chair LaRe, Ranking Member Sweeney, and members of the House Finance Committee, thank you for this opportunity to provide interested party testimony on House Bill 606.